Panel jointure system

ABSTRACT

A partition system including a frame to which different types of covering panels can be readily hooked into place. Vertical wiring channels are provided at the end elements of the frame and covers are provided which simultaneously cover the wiring channels and mask the edges of the panel. Brackets for supporting superstructure can be secured to the end elements of the frame in channels which are defined by an end trim piece on one side and by a wall of the wiring channel on the other side. Adjacent partitions can be secured together angularly by means of a single link at the top and a single link at the bottom thereof. They can be secured in alignment by a pair of adjacent links at the top and at the bottom. Vertically spaced platforms can be mounted on feet at the bottom of the partitions to define spaced wiring channels. Telescoping end caps are provided for covering the ends of the wiring channels and the top portion of each end cap can be telescoped downwardly to allow access to the connecting links at the bottom of the partition. The wiring channels can be covered on either side by a molding which is releasably securable to the bottom of the partitions. In the case of wiring which must pass from one partition to another where the partitions are to be disposed at an angle, a telescoping corner cap is provided. Finally, special connector brackets are provided for connecting partitions of different heights to one another at various angles.

United States Patent [1 1 Tacke et al.

[ Sept. 10, 1974 I PANEL JOINTURE SYSTEM [75] Inventors: William H.Tacke, Wyoming; Robert B. Ormiston, Grandville', Robert H. McKay, GrandRapids, all of Mich.

[73] Assignee: Steelcase lnc., Grand Rapids, Mich.

[22] Filed: July 9, 1973 [21] Appl. No; 377,272

Related U.S. Application Data [62] Division of Ser. No. 234,492, March14, 1972, Pat.

[52] U.S. Cl. 52/71, 52/582 [51] Int. Cl E04b 2/82 58] Field bf8earcli 52 /71. 582. 2 3 5. 238. 239.

Primary ExaminerPrice C. Faw, Jr. Attorney, Agent, or Firm-Price,Heneveld, I-Iuizenga & Cooper [57] ABSTRACT A partition system includinga frame to which different types of covering panels can be readilyhooked into place. Vertical wiring channels are provided at the endelements of the frame and covers are provided which simultaneously coverthe wiring channels and mask the edges of the panel. Brackets forsupporting superstructure can be secured to the end elements of theframe in channels which are defined by an end trim piece on one side andby a wall of the wiring channel on the other side. Adjacent partitionscan be secured together angularly by means of a single link at the topand a single link at the bottom thereof. They can be secured inalignment by a pair of adjacent links at the top and at the bottom.Vertically spaced platforms can be mounted on feet at the bottom of thepartitions to define spaced wiring channels. Telescoping end caps areprovided for covering the ends of the wiring channels and the topportion of each end cap can be telescoped downwardly to allow access tothe connecting links at the bottom of the partition. The wiring channelscan be covered on either side by a molding which is releasably securableto the bottom of the partitions. In the case of wiring which must passfrom one partition to another where the partitions are to be disposed atan angle, a telescoping corner cap is provided. Finally, specialconnector brackets are provided for connecting partitions of differentheights to one another at various angles.

8 Claims, 22 Drawing Figures PAIENIEDSEP 1 01914 SHEEIZOF 7 PAlEmmssP 1man sum 7 or 7 F' I6. I 9.

PANEL JOINTURE SYSTEM CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This is adivisional application of parent application Ser. No. 234,492, filedMar. 14, 1972, now US. Pat. No. 3,802,146 and entitled PANEL SYSTEM.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to movablepartition systems. Such systems provide versatility in officearrangements and decrease overhead by eliminating the need to erectpermanent partitions.

However, such partition systems are still extremely expensive. Onefactor which contributes to this expense is the need for versatility ofstyling. In order to provide versatility of styling, manufacturersconstruct a basic partition having one type of exterior surface andmerely secure additional surface materials, such as tack board or thelike, thereto. In the alternative, completely different partitions areconstructed for different colors, styles and the like. Unfortunately theconsumers who purchase the latter type partitions are locked in on onetype of styling for the life of the partitions.

Some semipermanent wall systems, as opposed to the readily movablepartition systems to which the present invention is directed, includeframes erected from floor to ceiling and with panels secured to theframes. These systems could not be used in movable partition systemsbecause the rather ineffective panel securing means which are typicallyemployed would allow the panels to fall off when the partitions aremoved. Further, the se curing means utilized in these systems allow thepanels to bow outwardly away from the frames, thereby creating anundesirable, cheap appearance.

Another factor contributing to the expense of prior art movablepartition systems are the complicated interconnecting mechanisms whichare employed for joining adjacent partitions. Such mechanismsadditionally contribute to a lack of versatility in the system. Oneprior art system uses a single joining tab between adjacent connectedpartitions, but this system suffers from wobbling of one partition withrespect to another when the two partitions are placed in directalignment.

While some prior art partition systems have concealed wiring areas atthe base of the partitions, none of the systems offer any flexibility invertical wiring. There may be vertical wiring channels in some of thesystems, but they are either completely open and exposed, or in thealternative are completely closed and offer no way of leading wiring outof the channel where desired.

Even in systems having base wiring areas, the wiring areas arefrequently inadequate for required usage. Most state and-local lawsrequire that casual wiring and telephone wiring be stored in a separatecompartment from permanent wiring. Some partition systems'do employ twoseparate channels in the base wiring area. However, these separatechannels are permanent and thereby create additional expense for thepurchaser who does not intend to place any wiring in the base. In thealternative, only one channel wiring area is pro vided and the use ofpermanent lines in conjunction with casual wiring requires the user toimprovise a makeshift divider of some type.

The base wiring areas generate yet another source of expense in thatelaborate moldings or covers are required to cover these areas. Thesemoldings must be readily removable. When service lines or casual wiringis passed between two partitions cocked at an angle, the moldings orcovers do not extend beyond the ends of the partitions and the wiring isleft exposed.

Also expensive are the stabilizers which are employed when a singlepartition or a plurality of partitions in direct alignment must bestabilized. Prior art systems employ complicated stabilizer structureswhich include integral leveler glides at the ends thereof. Thus, thesystems employ a leveler on the partition for use without a stabilizerin addition to a leveler on the stabilizer itself.

Finally, prior art systems lack versatility in joining partitions ofdifferent height, or in joining partitions to adjacent cabinets or thelike. The concept employed in the present invention obviate or minimizeall of the above as well as other drawbacks in prior art partitionsystems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides versatility ofpartition styling in an economical manner by providing a frame to whichany number of different types and styles of panels can be readilysecured. The frame includes top and bottom elements joined by verticalend elements and a crosspiece, the latter being positioned intermediatethe top and bottom elements. Each removable panel includes meansgenerally at the center thereof on its inside face for cooperating withthe crosspiece to hold the center of the panel in place. Preferably,means are provided at the top, bottom and end elements for masking theedges of the panel.

Stability and simplicity are the keynotes of the manner in whichadjacent partitions are joined together. A pair of links are secured tothe top end of each of a pair of adjacent partitions. The links aredisposed adjacent one another, but are spaced towards opposite sides ofthe partitions. At least one of the links is pivotally secured at oneend to one of the partitions and the other of the links is removable.Thus when the partitions are joined in direct alignment, the two linksprovide lateral stability and prevent wobbling. When an angularrelationship is desired, the removable link can be removed and one ofthe partitions pivoted about its pivotal connection to the link.

Preferably, each of the links joining the top ends of the partitionsincludes first and second legs disposed generally at an obtuse anglewith respect to one another. The first leg is secured at one end to thetop of the partition and is joined to the other partition generally atthe juncture of the first and second legs. The second partition is againjoined to the second leg generally at the end thereof. This tripleconnection of the link further lends to lateral stability of the system.

Versatility in vertical wiring is achieved by providing an outwardlyopening vertical channel into which wire can be stored. A cover issecured to the channel to completely cover it, but the cover includes aface which is constructed of material sufficiently soft and thin that itcan readily be cut to facilitate passage of wire or the like through thecover. Preferably, the cover includes a pair of fingers projectingrearwardly from its face for embracing opposite sides of one sidewall ofthe channel. The face itself then projects from these fingers and isgenerally planar in configuration whereby it can readily be cut inalignment with the channel opening.

In another aspect of the invention, the cover for the wiring channelsimultaneously provides a means for masking the side edges of thedetachable panels. Thus, the face projects not only over the wiringchannel, but also projects in a direction towards the detachable panelsto thereby mask the edges thereof. This further increases theutilization of the vertical end frame elements to which the wiringchannels are preferably secured.

Maximum utilization of the vertical end elements of the frame is furtherfacilitated by providing a pair of adjacent channels at the ends of thepartitions as part of the end elements. The first channel is for wiringand the second includes means for cooperating with brackets wherebysuperstructure can be mounted to the partition. Preferably, the verticalframe element itself comprises opposed sidewalls and an end wall with anend trim piece secured over the end wall and defining a pair of firstwalls extending away from the sidewalls. These first walls, combinedwith one of the wiring channel walls, define the bracket mountingchannel. Preferably, this channel is quite narrow and includes slots atthe base thereof into which the superstructure mounting brackets can besecured. To prevent light from passing through the slots from onesidewall of the vertical frame element to the other, a blind is securedto the inside of the frame element and passes between the opposed slots.

In the base wiring area, the dual channel wiring problem is solved byproviding a foot at each end of the frame, the foot having a top wall,sidewalls and a bottom wall and being open through its center in adirection generally parallel to the plane of the partition. The verticalend element of the partition frame extends below the level of the bottomframe element and is secured to the top wall of the foot. The top wallof each foot includes means for securing a first platform thereto todefine a wiring channel between the first platform and the bottom frameelement. The bottom wall of each foot includes means for securing asecond platform thereto for defining a second wiring channel between thefirst and second platforms and through the openings in the feet.

The base wiring area is covered on either side by a simplified moldingwhich cooperates with a tab projecting outwardly from each side of eachfoot. The tab is resiliently flexible downwardly. The molding includes atop edge which abuts the underside of the panels and a bottom edge whichincludes recesses therein for matingly engaging the tabs.

In another aspect of the invention, an end cap member is provided, forcovering the ends of the base wiring area, which includes first andsecond telescopically interfitting members. The first member ispositioned generally adjacent the bottom of the partition and isslidable downward onto the second member in order to allow access to thepartition joining means which are positioned generally in line with thebottom edges of the panels. Preferably, both of the telescopicallyinterfitting members include knockouts whereby electrical wiring can bepassed therethrough from one panel to another if desired.

To facilitate covering of wiring passing between adjacent partitionswhich are cocked at an angle, a special comer member is provided whichcomprises telescopically interfitting first and second members. Thefirst member is secured to the bottom, generally outside edge of onepartition and the second is secured to the bottom generally outside edgeof the other. Each of the first and second members includes a curvedsidewall and a top wall which is shaped generally like a segment of acircle. These first and second members are then telescopicallyinterfitted whereby the angle between adjacent partitions can be varied.

Stabilization is simplified and economized by providing each of the feetat the base and end of the partition with a leveler and by providing astabilizer which is mounted to the foot in slidable verticalrelationship with respect thereto. Securing means are provided fortightening the stabilizer with respect to the foot such that the levelerglide can be used to adjust the height of the partition with thestabilizer loose and free to slide, and the stabilizer can then betightened with the securing means.

Finally, it is an object of the present invention to provide a pluralityof related joining brackets to facilitate joining partitions ofdifferent heights and to facilitate joining partitions to cabinets orthe like. Generally, these brackets are characterized in that theyinclude one leg for cooperating with the channel which is normally usedto secure superstructure to the partition and a second leg whichincludes means for joining it to that portion of the panel which isnormally used to join adjacent partitions in endwise relationship.Another innovation involves the use of a wing bolt which can be threadedinto the side of a cabinet or the like and which includes means on thewing thereof for securing to the top end of an adjacent partition.

These and other objects and advantages of the invention will be morefully understood and appreciated by reference to the writtenspecification and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view of atypical arrangement of the partition system of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the partition frame and apanel for securing thereto;

FIG. 3 is a broken, cutaway view of the central portion of the frame andpanel shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the assembled partition with the toptrim piece exploded away;

FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along plane V-V of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a bottom plan view of the top trim piece;

FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along plane VIIVII of FIG. 4;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of a pair of adjacent partitions joinedtogether;

FIG. 9 is a side elevational view of a link for joining adjacentpartitions together;

FIG. 10 is a generally elevated perspective view of the corner portionsof a pair of partitions joined together and cocked at an angle;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a pair of partitions joined together withthe end portions of the top trim pieces broken away;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a pair of partitions joined together withthe end portions of the top trim pieces broken away;

FIG. 13 is a bottom perspective view of the corner portions of a pair ofadjacent partitions;

FIG. 14 is an elevational view of the lower lefthand portion of apartition with no molding secured thereto;

FIG. is a bottom plan view of that portion of a partition shown in FIG.14;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of two vertical wiring channel covers withportions thereof notched to facilitate passage of wire therethrough;

FIG. 17 is an end elevational view of the end cover for the base wiringarea of a partition;

FIG. 18 is a slightly elevated perspective view of a comer cover foradjacent partitions;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view showing a partition j0in ing bracket andshowing the manner in which partitions can be joined using this bracket;

FIG. is a perspective view of another partition joining bracket andshowing the manner in which partitions can be joined using this bracket;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of still another partition joining bracketand a showing of the manner in which partitions can be joined using thisbracket; and

FIG. 22 is a plan view of two alternative wing bolts which can be usedin this invention to join a partition to a cabinet or the like.

PREFERRED EMBODIMENT FIG. 1 shows a typical arrangement of the partitionsystem in which partitions l are used to support files 2 and a worktable 3. One end partition is shown joined to a filing cabinet 4. Thepartition 1 itself is the heart of this entire system.

In the preferred embodiment, partition 1 consists of a frame 10 whichcan be covered by panels hung on either side thereof (FIG. 2). A toptrim piece is secured to the top of frame 10 and masks the top edges ofpanel 30 (FIG. 4). The side edges of the panel 30 are masked by coverswhich additionally cover a vertical wiring channel 50 at each end and oneach side of the partition (FIGS. 4 and 5). At its base, each partition1 is supported by a foot at either end thereof (FIG. 2), each includinga leveler glide 88 (FIG. 14). The area between feet 80 is a base wiringarea in which various electrical wiring can be inserted. This area ishidden at its sides by detachable moldings (FIGS. 4 and 7) and by endcovers 110 (FIG. 4).

Adjacent partitions can be joined together by means of adjacent links 70(FIG. 8). If desired, one of the links 70 can be removed and placed in astored condition, leaving only one link joining the partitions andallowing the partitions to be arranged angularly with respect to oneanother (FIG. 10). If a single partition is to be free standing, or if aplurality of partitions are to be arranged in a line, a stabilizer isslidably mounted to foot 80 (FIGS. 7 and 14). Proper height is set byleveler glide 88 and stabilizer 130 is then bolted tightly to foot 80 bybolts 133 (FIG. 14).

When partitions are to be joined at an angle with electrical wiringpassing therebetween, a special corner cover hides the wiring (FIG. 18).To facilitate joining a taller to a shorter panel in either aligned orslightly angled fashion, a joining bracket is provided (FIG. 19). Forjoining such panels perpendicularly, a perpendicular joining bracket isprovided (FIG. 20). For joining a taller panel to a shorter panel midwayof the shorter panel, a midway bracket is provided (FIG. 21). Finally,to join a partition to a cabinet or the like, a wing bolt a or 18% canbe utilized (FIG. 22).

Frame 10 includes a pair of vertical end elements 11 joined by topelement 14, bottom element 15 and crosspiece 18 positioned generallycentrally between top element 14 and bottom element 15 (FIG. 2). Each ofthese elements is formed of tubular stock, formed sheet metal or thelike. Each end element 11 comprises a tubular post 12 with a generallyC-shaped extension 13 welded thereto (FIG. 5). Extension 13 includes anend wall 13a and a pair of sidewalls 13b, the latter being welded attheir ends to post 12. Top element 14 is generally tubular inconfiguration, and includes apertures 14a therein for matingly receivingtop trim piece 40 (FIG. 4). It is welded at its ends to post 12 of endelement 11. Bottom element 15 also comprises a generally tubular post(FIG. 7). A channel-shaped member is welded to the bottom of bottomelement 15 to define a ledge 16 having an upturned lip 17 projectinglaterally from either side of bottom element 15. Panels 30 are receivedin the channels formed by ledge 16, lip 17 and bottom element 15.

Crosspiece 18 is generally channel-shaped (FIGS. 3 and 7) includingsidewalls 19 and a base 20. The channel sidewalls 19 provide means forcooperating with connecting means on panels 30.

Secured to the end of end element 11 is an end trim piece 21 (FIGS. 2, 4and 5). End trim piece 21 is secured by tack welding or the like to endwall 13a of end element 11 and wraps around to jut back inwardly to joinsidewalls 13b and define channel walls 22 extending laterally fromsidewalls 13b (FIG. 5). These channel walls 22, along with the outsidewalls 52 of vertical wiring channels 50 cooperate to define a narrow,recessed channel 28 which includes means therein for securing bracketsto partition 1. Superstructure such as work shelf 3, filing cabinets 2,etc., can be supported on partitions 1 by means of such brackets.Specifically, this securing means comprises slots 23 in sidewalls 13b atthe base of channel 28. To prevent light from passing through the slots23 from one sidewall 13b to the other, and to thereby minimize thevisual noticeability of channel 28, a blind 24 is secured to the insideof end element 11, specifically to end wall 13a of extension 13, andprojects into the space between the opposing slots 23.

To facilitate the joining of adjacent partitions 1, end trim piece 21also includes nuts 25 welded therein at each side of end element 11(FIGS. 5, 11 and 12). It is into these nuts 25 which bolts 74 arethreaded in order to secure links 70 to the partitions 1. One such nut25 is also positioned at the bottom and one side of end trim piece 21(FIGS. 5 and 13). However, the other side is equipped only with adownwardly projecting pin 25a which passes through a receiving aperturein a link 70. This modification is designed to ease the job of securinglinks 70 to the bottoms of the partitions. Also to facilitate securinglinks 70 to the partitions, each top element 14 and each bottom element15 includes a pair of spaced apertures or slots 26 therein (FIGS. 8, 1 land 12). These cooperate with links 70 in a manner which will be morefully set forth hereinafter.

Panels 30 comprise a face or board 31 backed by several n'gidifyingstuds 32 secured to the back side thereof (FIG. 2). Face 31 can be anyone of a multitude of different types of board. For example, it might betack board or cork board. It could simply be a sheet of hardboard orfiberboard. It could be an upholstery covered board. An infinite varietyand styles of boards can be used for face member 31.

Rigidifying studs 32 are generally channel-shaped in configuration,having sidewalls 33 and a base wall 34 (FIGS. 2 and 8). Each of thesidewalls 33 includes a flange 33a projecting laterally therefrom forsecurance to the back of face member 31 by means of glue, screws, tackwelding or the like. The combined thickness of channels 32 and facemember 31 is always the same, regardless of what particular type of facememher 31 is utilized. Thus, the thickness, or depth, of eachrigidifying stud channel 32 is inversely proportional to the thicknessof the face member 31 used. This is illustrated particularly in FIG. 8,where on the left-hand side, a thinner face member 31 is used, requiringthicker studs 32 and on the right, a thicker face member 31 is used,requiring thinner studs 32. Preferably, the overall thickness of eachpanel 30 is such that the front or outside surface of face 31 isapproximately flush with the lateral extremities of end trim piece 21(FIG. 8).

Each panel 30 is secured to frame 10 by means of a plurality of hooks35, each of which is secured to the base wall 34 of a rigidifying stud32 (FIGS. 2, 3 and 7). The hooks 35 are located generally centrally ofpanel such that when they are hooked over the wall 19 of crosspiece 18,they positively hold the center area of the panel 30 tightly againstframe 10. This prevents the occurrence of undesirable bowing.

Panels 30 are not only hooked over crosspiece 18, but also they areinserted into the channel defined by ledge 16 and lip 17 (FIG. 7). Lip17 thereby acts as a means for masking the bottom edge of panel 30 andaids in holding panel 30 tightly against frame 10. At the top of panel30, a plurality of generally U-shaped clips 36 are provided to aid inholding the tops of panels 30 tightly against top piece 14 (FIGS. 2, 4and 7). One leg of each clip 36 hooks into the top of the channelshapedstud 32 on one side of crosspiece 14, and the other leg similarly hooksinto the channel-shaped stud 32 on the panel 30 at the opposite side oftop piece 14. Each clip 36 then sets down on top of crosspiece 14in themanner shown in FIG. 4.

Top trim piece 40 includes securing clips 41 projecting downwardly fromthe bottom thereof (FIG. 6) which can be inserted into apertures 14a intop frame element 14 (FIG. 4). Top piece 40 includes a peripheral lip 42projecting downwardly therefrom which slips down over the top edges ofpanels 30 and thereby acts to mask those top edges (FIGS. 4, 6 and 7). Adownwardly projecting center piece 43 sets snugly atop top frame element14 when top trim piece 40 is in place (FIGS. 6 and 7).

Secured to each vertical end element 11 on either side thereof is agenerally channel-shaped member defining a vertical wiring channel 50(FIG. 5). Vertical wiring channel 50 includes an inside wall 51 spacedinwardly away from end trim piece 21, an outside wall 52, spaced towardsend trim piece 21, and a joining base 53. This member is formed of metalor the like and is secured to the sidewalls 13b of extension 13 by meansof tack welding or the like. The edges of each of the walls 51 and 52are folded over to define a smooth exterior edge. However, inside wall51 is folded over only partially, to leave a lip 54 extending the lengththereof. Lip 54 cooperates with the securing means of cover to securecover 60 to channel 50.

Cover 60 is a plastic extrusion which comprises a face 66 with a pair offingers projecting rearwardly therefrom (FIG. 5). These include aninside finger 61 which goes to the inside of channel 50 and an outsidefinger 62 which goes to the outside thereof. Outside finger 62 includesa hook 63 thereon which slips over lip 54 and thereby holds cover 60 inplace. Preferably, fingers 61 and 62 diverge to define generally a V,with hook 63 hooking back towards finger 61 (FIG. 5). This makes iteasier to slip these fingers over channel wall 51. Preferably, lip 54 isan outward and rearward bend. However, FIG. 8 does show an acceptablealternative.

Face 66 extends laterally away from fingers 61 and 62 in the directionof outside channel wall 52. This portion of face 66 completely coverschannel 50 and hides any wiring that is inserted therein from view. Itis important that this portion of face 66 be generally planar inconfiguration such that it can easily be cut or notched inwardly fromthe side edge thereof in the manner shown in FIG. 16. In the right sideview of FIG. 16, face 66 includes a hole 64 punched therein and a cut640 cut inwardly from the side edge. This effects an opening throughcover 60 into wiring channel 50 and allows a wire to be passed outthrough hole 64. In the alternative, a notch 65 could simply be cut infrom this edge of cover 60.

Face 66 also extends laterally from fingers 61 and 62 in the oppositedirection. This portion of face 66 overlaps and masks the side edge ofpanel 30 such that the side edges thereof are not visible (see FIGS. 4and 5).

The links 70 which are used to join adjacent partitions together aregenerally flat pieces of steel having a pin 73 projecting downwardlyfrom one end thereof (FIG. 9). Specifically, each link 70 includes ajoining leg 71, which is the primary connection between adjacentpartitions and a rigidifying leg 72 (FIGS. 8 & 10). At the top ofadjacent partitions, joining leg 71 is joined at one end to one of thepartitions by means of a bolt 74. Each link 70 is joined to the otherpartition generally at the juncture of joining leg 71 and rigidifyingleg 72 by a second bolt 74. Rigidifying leg 72 is secured at its end tothe same partition by means of downwardly projecting pin 73 engaging oneof the apertures or slots 26 in top frame member 14. One link 70 issecured to one side of the adjoining partitions and one is secured tothe other. This provides greater lateral stability than would beobtained through the use of only a single link 70. The fact thatrigidifying leg 72 is also connected to one of the partitions furtherincreases lateral stability. Rigidifying leg 72 is joined to joining leg71 at an oblique angle, primarily so that it will deviate away from theface of the partition to a point above top element 14 into which asecure fastening can be maintained. Aperture 26 in frame element 14 issomewhat elongated in order to allow for variations in tolerance.

It will be noted that each top element 14 includes two spaced slots 26.This facilitates joining adjacent partitions 1 at a wider variety ofangles. When partitions are joined in alignment, as shown in FIG. 8, thepin 73 of rigidifying leg 72 is positioned within the innermost of thetwo slots 26. In order to adjust the partitions angularly with respectto one another, one of the links 70 is removed, as shown in FIG. 11, andthe partition which is secured to the end of joining leg 71 is rotatedslightly. Due to the desirability of maintaining a close fit between theadjacent panels, however, a point is reached where the corners of theend trim pieces 21 begin to interfere. At this point, further angularadjustment from the position shown in FIG. 11 becomes somewhat moredifficult. Accordingly, the joining link 70 can be removed andreadjusted with pin 73 positioned within the endmost slot 26 in themanner shown in FIGS. 10 & 12. This enables the joined partitions to bedisposed at a perfect right angle to one another (FIG. 10), or to becocked slightly at an angle greater than 90, but less than 135 (FIG.12). When a link 70 is not being used, the end of joining leg 71 isbolted to one partition and link 70 is oriented with pin 73 projectinginto the open end of Wiring channel 50. Links 70 join partitions 1 attheir bottom ends in substantially the same way. The only exception, asheretofore pointed out, is that a pin 25a (FIGS, and 13) projectsdownwardly for projecting through that aperture at the end of joiningleg 71 which would normally receive a joining bolt 74.

The entire frame is supported by a pair of feet 80, one being positionedat the bottom and each end thereof (FIG. 2). Each foot 80 includes a topwall 81 a pair of spaced sidewalls 83 and a bottom wall 82 (FIG. 7).These define a large central opening 84 extending through foot 80,generally in a direction parallel to the plane of partition 1. Opening84 serves to provide a wiring access opening into the base area ofpartition 1.

The post 12 of end frame element 11 extends downwardly below the levelof bottom frame element and is mounted by welding or the like to topwall 81 of foot 80 (FIGS. 7 and 14). Top wall 81 also includes anaperture 85 therein into which a bolt 91 can be threaded or might pass,for securance to a nut on the opposite side, to facilitate the mountingof a top platform 90 to top wall 81 (FIG. 14). Platform 90 is a dividermade of sheet metal or the like which extends between the top walls 81of the feet 80 at opposite ends of the partition. It provides a wiringchannel between it and the bottom of bottom frame element 15. It is areadily attachable or detachable option to the system which is necessaryif the base wiring area is to be divided into two separate channels, onefor casual wiring and one for permanent wiring.

Bottom wall 82 includes a similar aperture 86 therein whereby a bottomplatform 100 can be secured thereto by means of nut and boltcombinations 101 or the like (FIGS. 7 and 14). Bottom platform 100 aidsin defining a wiring channel between itself and top platform 90, throughthe openings 84 in feet 80. Bottom platform 100 prevents any wiring inthis channel area from being exposed below the level of molding 120which is used to cover this base wiring area.

A leveler glide 88 is also secured to each foot 80, being threaded intothe bottom wall 82 thereof (FIG. 14). By threading leveler glide 88upwardly or downwardly, the level of the partition can be adjusted. Eachfoot 80 includes a pair of elongated vertical slots 87 in each sidewall83 to facilitate the slidable joining of stabilizer 130 thereto in amanner which will be subsequently described.

Each sidewall 83 includes a pair of threaded openings therein positionedin vertically adjacent relationship whereby bolts 114 can be threadedthereinto to secure end cover members 110 to feet 80 (FIG. 14). An endcover 110 is secured to each foot at each end of the partition toprovide a decorative cover therefor. Each end cover comprises a pair oftelescopically interfitting members, a bottom member 111 and a topmember (FIGS. 14 and 17). Bottom member 111 includes a front wall 112and a pair of spaced sidewalls 113 which embrace the sidewalls 83 offoot 80. The bolts 114 pass through appropriate apertures in sidewalls113 to secure bottom member 111 to foot 80. Top member 115 similarlyincludes a front wall 116 and sidewalls 117. The sidewalls 117 aresomewhat shorter in distance from front wall 116 than are the sidewalls113 from front wall 112 (FIG. 14). Sidewalls 117 are just long enough sothat they fit under the edge of at least one of the bolts 114 wherebytop member 115 can be securely fastened against slidable movement withrespect to bottom member 111. However in order to facilitate access tothe bottom of end trim piece 21, at which point joining links 70 aresecured to the bottom of the partition, top member 115 can be loosenedby loosening bolts 114 and can be slid telescopically downwardly ontobottom member 111.

To facilitate the passage of electrical wiring into the base wiring areaof the partition, each of the bottom and top members 111 and 115 of endcover 110 includes a knockout portion 118 in the respective front face112 or 116 thereof. In top member 115, knockout 118 defines a downwardlyopening U-shaped slot and in bottom member 111, knockout 118 defines anupwardly opening U-shaped slot.

The entire base wiring area can be covered in the manner shown in FIG. 4by bottom moldings 120. Each molding 120 is preferably formed of sheetmetal or the like (FIG. 7) and includes a front wall 121 bent over anddownwardly at its top to define a top edge 122. At its bottom, frontwall 121 is bent over and upwardly to define a bottom edge 123. A springtab member 89 is welded or otherwise secured to the bottom of foot 80and its projecting ends define tabs 89a which are resiliently flexiblein a downward direction. The bottom edges 123 of moldings 120 includeapertures or slots therein for receiving these tabs 89a. Thus to securea molding 120 to the base wiring area, the slots are matingly engagedwith the resilient tabs 89a and the tabs 89a are forced downwardly sothat the top edge 122 of each molding 120 can be snapped into positionbelow ledge 16 of bottom frame element 15. In this manner, the entirebottom wiring area is readily coverable and is readily accessible whenso desired.

Stabilizer 130, which is provided for supporting either a plurality ofpanels in a straight line or a single panel, comprises a base 131 formedof steel or the like and a pair of upwardly depending sidewalls 132which define a channel (FIG. 7). These sidewalls 132 pass on either sideof foot 80 such that foot 80 is embracingly maintained within thechannel defined thereby (FIGS. 7 and 14). Each channel sidewall 132includes apertures therein which align with the vertical slots 87 in thesidewalls 83 of each foot 80. Preferably, the apertures in one of thechannel sidewalls 132 are threaded, such that a bolt 133 can be passedthrough the aperture in the other channel sidewall, through the slots 87in the two sidewalls 83 of feet 80, and threaded into the apertures inthe opposite channel sidewall 132. Bolt 133 can then be loosened whileleveler glide 88 is adjusted to the proper height, thereby allowingstabilizer to slide or be readily moved vertically with respect to foot80. Once the proper height is reached, bolts 133 can be tightened down,to thereby insure stabilization of the partition at the proper height.

Because the partitions l are joined in such a way that they pivot on anaxis which is generally at the inside corner of adjacent partitions(FIG. the ends 21 of the partitions are generally exposed when thepanels are adjusted at an angle. If wiring is passed between adjacentpanels cocked at such an angle, the wiring would be completely visible.To eliminate this, a corner cover 140 is provided which comprises asmaller member 141 which telescopically interfits with a larger member142 (FIG. 18). Each of the two members comprises a generally curved wall143 joined to a top wall 144 which is shaped generally like a segment ofa circle. Projecting from each sidewall 143 is a connecting flange 145which can be bolted to foot 80 in place of end cover 110 by means ofbolts 114. Because the smaller and larger members are telescopicallyintertitting, the adjacent partitions can be rotated to any number ofangles, and the wiring will still be covered.

To facilitate joining different height partitions in a variety of ways,a plurality of special joining brackets 150, 160 and 170 are provided(FIGS. 19, and 21). Joining bracket 150 comprises a first leg 151 withhook tabs 152 extending therefrom such that first leg 151 can beinserted into a channel 28 (FIG. 5) and hooked into receiving slots 23to thereby secure joining bracket 150 to a partition. Second leg 153projects from first leg 151 generally at right angles thereto andincludes a tab 154 at the top thereof, bent over in the same generaldirection that first leg 151 projects. Tab 154 can be bolted by a bolt74 through aperture 154a and into the same nut at the top of end member21 in the same manner that a link 70 would be secured thereto. Withbracket 150, adjacent partitions of different sizes can be eitherdirectly aligned or cocked at a slight angle as shown in FIG. 19.

Right angle bracket 160 facilitates joining a shorter partition to ataller partition at a right angle. It is comparable in structure tobracket 150, having a first leg 161 with hook tabs 162 thereon. Thisfacilitates securing bracket 160 in channel 28. A second leg 163 extendsfrom first leg 161 generally at a right angle and has a tab 164 bentover at the top thereof in a direction generally away from the first leg161. Tab 164 is secured to a partition 1 by a bolt 74 passing throughaperture 164a therein and into nut 25 in the same manner that a link 70would be secured thereto.

Midway bracket 170 makes it possible to join a taller partition to ashorter partition midwaybetween the ends thereof, without having to relyon the nuts 25 disposed at the ends of the partition. Midway bracket 170includes a first leg 171 having hook tabs 172 thereon for mounting inchannel 28. It also includes a second leg 173 disposed generally at aright angle thereto. However, a third leg 174 is provided extendinggenerally at a right angle to the second leg 173 in generally the samedirection as first leg 171. Third leg 174 includes a flange 175 bentover at the top thereof having an aperture 175a in the end thereofwhereby it can be bolted into the top of top frame element 114. Flange175 includes an upward deviation 176 therein to insure clearance overthe top edge of a panel secured to frame 10.

Finally, to facilitate the joining of a partition 1 to a cabinet 4 orthe like in the manner shown in FIG. 1, a

special wing bolt 1800 or 18017 is provided. Wing bolt 180a includes asheet metal screw portion 181 with a wing 182 at the end thereof. Sheetmetal screw portion 181 can be threaded into the side of a cabinet 4 andwing 182 can be secured to the end of a partition 1 by means of aperture183 therein. A bolt 74 is passed through aperture 183 and into areceiving nut 25 in the same manner as a link would be secured to theend of partition 1. Wing bolt 18012 is identical, except that itsthreaded portion 181 is adapted to be threaded into a receiving nutsecured at some point to an adjacent cabinet 4.

OPERATION In operation, a single frame 10 may be used to provide aplurality of different styled partitions, merely by interchangingdifferent styles of panels 30. A panel 30 is slid into the bottomchannel defined by ledge 16 and lip 17 (FIG. 7) and is hooked overcrosspiece 18 by means of hooks 35. Securance at the top is achieved byslipping the legs of clips 36 over the top of top frame member 14 intothe openings in the ends of the rigidifying channels 32. Cover 40 issnapped onto top piece 14 and its overhanging lip 42 masks the top edgeof each panel 30 on either side of frame 10. The side edges of a panel30 are masked by securing a cover 60 in position over each wiringchannel 50 (FIGS. 4 and 5). Cover 60 simultaneously covers any wireswhich may be lying within wiring channel 50. To insure that the surfaceof any particular panel 30 is generally flush with the lateralextremities of the end trim pieces 21, the thickness of the reinforcingribs 32 is inversely proportional to the thickness of the face 31 whichmakes up a particular panel 30.

The base wiring area between feet at the bottom of a partition 1 iscovered by snapping moldings 120 into position. The slots in the bottomedge 123 of each molding 120 are fitted over the downwardly resilientlyflexible tabs 89a and the top edges 122 of each molding 120 are snappedinto position beneath ledge 16 (FIG. 7). The ends of the base wiringarea are covered by end caps 110 which are bolted to feet 80 in themanner shown in FIG. 14.

If it is desired to pass permanent or casual wiring through the basewiring area, the knockout portions 118 are knocked out of end covermembers 110. A bottom platform 100 is secured to the bottom wall 82 ofeach foot 80 such that no wiring hangs down below the bottom edge ofmolding 120. If casual wiring and permanent wiring are both to be passedthrough the base wiring area, a top platform is secured to the top wall81 of each foot 80. Because top wall 81 is spaced slightly below bottomframe element 15, a top wiring channel is formed between top platform 90and bottom frame element 15.

Vertical wiring is effected by passing a wire up through wiring channel50. If it is desired to bring a wire out of vertical wiring channel 50at desk top level (FIG. 1), a notch or the like can be cut in the edgeof the face 66 of cover 60 (FIG. 16). Wire can be passed directlythrough such a notch or slot onto the work surface 3 or the like.

Partitions can be joined together in endwise relationship by securing apair of links 70 across the top ends of adjacent partitions and anotherpair of links 70 across the bottom ends of adjacent partitions.Specifically, the links 70 at the top of the partition are bolted intoreceiving nuts 25 in the end trim members 21 (FIG. 8). The downwardlyprojecting pin 73 on the rigidifying leg 72 fits into the innermostreceiving slot 26 in the top member 14 of each partition. If the panelpartitions are to be cocked at an angle with respect to one another, oneof the links 70 is removed (or left in its stored position). Thepartition which is secured to the joining leg 71 only of the remaininglink 70 is rotated to the desired angle. For orientation at an anglegreater than 45 with respect to straight alignment, the link 70 can bedetached and reoriented with its pin 73 positioned in the endmostreceiving slot 26 (FIG. 12).

The only exception to the above description is that each bottom link 70is secured to adjacent partitions by one bolt and by one downwardlydepending pin 25a (FIG. 13). After loosening bolts 114 (FIG. 14), thetop member 115 of end cover 110 is slid downwardly onto bottom member111 to facilitate working with these bottom links. After joining iseffected, top member 115 is slid up again and bolts 114 tightened.

Where partitions are to be cocked at an angle, and where wiring is to bepassed between the partitions, end covers 110 are replaced by a cornercover 140 (FIG. 18). The telescopically interfitting members 141 and 142of corner cap 140 allow the panels to be adjusted angularly while stillcovering any wiring passing therebetween.

In order to support a plurality of partitions joined in a straight line,or a single partition in a freestanding fashion, stabilizer 130 can besecured to foot 80 with its channel walls 132 embracing the same (FIGS.7 and 14). Leveler glide 88 is turned to adjust the height of thepartition while the bolts 133 are maintained loose. Thus, the bolts 133are free to slide in vertical slots 87. Once proper height is achieved,bolts 133 are tightened down and the height of stabilizer 130 withrespect to foot 80 becomes fixed. Through the use of joining brackets150, 160 and 170 in the manner as described above, low and highpartitions can be joined in the variety of ways shown in FIGS. 19, 20and 21. To facilitate joining a partition to a cabinet 4 in the mannershown in FIG. 1, wing bolt 180a or 18012 can be utilized in the mannerdescribed above.

CONCLUSION Thus, the present invention provides a partition system whichis extremely versatile and which maximizes economics of construction. Avariety of different style partitions can be obtained by using the sameskeletal frame in conjunction with a variety of different types ofpanels. The need for using a second covering on top of a partition whichhas permanent panels affixed thereto is eliminated.

A link structure is employed in the present invention which simplifiesthe joining of adjacent partitions together and yet which maximizesrigidity therebetween. The same link system is used whether thepartitions are joined in direct alignment, or at an angle with respectto one another.

Flexibility in vertical wiring is achieved in that wiring can be broughtup through channel 50 and brought out through a slot or notch in channelcover 60 at any desired level. One merely selects the level desired andcuts an appropriate slot or notch.

Versatility and economics are achieved in the base wiring area byproviding feet to which spaced top and bottom platforms can be secured.This makes it possible to divide a wiring area into two separatesections, one for casual wiring and one for service wiring. This entirebase wiring area is covered by a readily detachable, ingenious moldingwhich snaps into place by resting on resiliently downwardly flexibletabs at the very base of the partition. The end covers provided for theends of the base wiring area can be used with or with out wiring and aretelescopically constructed to provide access when desired to the meanswhereby adjacent partitions are joined at their bottoms. Where theadjacent partitions are to be cocked at an angle with service linespassing therebetween, a telescoping corner cover can be utilized tothereby allow angular adjustment without exposing the wiring.

The stabilizer structure for use in conjunction with the partitions isgreatly simplified by eliminating any leveler glides therein and simplyproviding a channel which matingly embraces the feet of the partition ina slidable relationship. The leveler glide on the partition is thenadjusted and when proper height is achieved, the stabilizer is madesecure with respect to the foot. Finally, where odd sized partitions areto be joined in odd ways, unique joining brackets are provided tofacilitate these junctures.

Of course, it is understood that the above is merely a preferredembodiment of the invention and that many changes and alterations can bemade thereof without departing from the spirit and broader aspects ofthe invention.

We claim:

1. A partition system comprising: a pair of adjacent partitions; a linkjoining the top ends of said partitions; said link having first andsecond legs; said first leg being secured at one end to the top of oneof said partitions; said link being secured to the other of saidpartitions generally at the juncture of said first and second legs; saidsecond leg being secured to said other partition generally at its end.

2. The partition system of claim 1 comprising: a pair of said links, onebeing secured to said adjacent partitions near one side thereof and theother being secured to said adjacent partitions near the opposite sidethereof; the said one end of said first legs of said links being securedto opposite ones of said partitions.

3. The partition system of claim 2 in which the securance at said oneend of said first leg to its respective panel is pivotable; each of saidlinks being removable from said partitions whereby one of saidpartitions can be pivoted with respect to said first leg and withrespect to the other partition.

4. The partition system of claim 3 in which said second leg of each ofsaid links includes a pin projecting downwardly therefrom generally atits said other end; the top of each of said partitions including anaperture therein for receiving said pin.

5. The partition of claim 4 in which said second leg is disposedgenerally at an obtuse angle with respect to said first leg, extendinginwardly away from the sides of said partition when said link is securedto a partition.

6. The partition system of claim 1 in which each of said partitionsincludes a base; said adjacent partitions being secured at said base aswell as at the top of said partitions; a telescoping end cap secured tothe ends of said partition for covering said base; said end capincluding first and second telescopically interfitting members; saidfirst member being slidable with respect to said second member to allowaccess to said link at said base of said partition.

7. A partition system comprising: a pair of adjacent partitions; a pairof links, each of said links being secured to the top end of each saidpartition, said links being disposed adjacent one another but beingspaced towards opposite sides of said partitions; at least one of saidlinks being pivotally secured at one end to one of said partitions; theother of said links being removably secured to said partitions wherebyit can be removed and the angular relationship of said partitions variedby pivoting said one of said partitions to which said one link ispivotally secured.

8. The partition system of claim 7 in which each of said partitionsincludes panel means and a base positioned below the bottom of saidpanel means; said adjacent partitions being secured at the bottom end ofsaid panel means, as well as at the top of said partitions; atelescoping end cap secured to the ends of said base; said end capincluding first and second telescopically interfitting members; saidfirst member being positioned adjacent to the bottom of said panel meansand being slidable downward onto said second member to allow access tothe bottom end of said panel means and to said link at the bottomthereof.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFI GATE OF. CORRECTION Patent No. 3,834,093 Dated September 10 1974 Inventor(s) William H Tacke 61; a1 0 Itis certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and thatsaid Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 14 after line 30:

Insert The embodiments of the invention in whieh an exclusive propertyor privilege is claimed are defined as follows.

Signed and sealed this 3rd day ,of December; 1974.

(SEAL) Attest:

McCOY M. GIBSON JR. Attesting Officer c. MARSHALL DANN Commissioner ofPatents FORM po'wso USCOMM-DC amen-Pee v if U.S. GOVERNMENT PR NTINGOFFICE: I969 O-3G6-33l,

1. A partition system comprising: a pair of adjacent partitions; a linkjoining the top ends of said partitions; said link having first andsecond legs; said first leg being secured at one end to the top of oneof said partitions; said link being secured to the other of saidpartitions generally at the juncture of said first and second legs; saidsecond leg being secured to said other partition generally at its end.2. The partition system of claim 1 comprising: a pair of said links, onebeing secured to said adjacent partitions near one side thereof and theother being secured to said adjacent partitions near the opposite sidethereof; the said one end of said first legs of said links being securedto opposite ones of said partitions.
 3. The partition system of claim 2in which the securance at said one end of said first leg to itsrespective panel is pivotable; each of said links being removable fromsaid partitions whereby one of said partitions can be pivoted withrespect to said first leg and with respect to the other partition. 4.The partition system of claim 3 in which said second leg of each of saidlinks includes a pin projecting downwardly therefrom generally at itssaid other end; the top of each of said partitions including an aperturetherein for receiving said pin.
 5. The partition of claim 4 in whichsaid second leg is disposed generally at an obtuse angle with respect tosaid first leg, extending inwardly away from the sides of said partitionwhen said link is secured to a partition.
 6. The partition system ofclaim 1 in which each of said partitions includes a base; said adjacentpartitions being secured at said base as well as at the top of saidpartitions; a telescoping end cap secured to the ends of said partitionfor covering said base; said end cap including first and secondtelescopically interfitting members; said first member being slidablewith respect to said second member to allow access to said link at saidbase of said partition.
 7. A partition system comprising: a pair ofadjacent partitions; a pair of links, each of said links being securedto the top end of each said partition, said links being disposedadjacent one another but being spaced towards opposite sides of saidpartitions; at least one of said links being pivotally secured at oneend to one of said partitions; the other of said links being removablysecured to said partitions whereby it can be removed and the angularrelationship of said partitions varied by pivoting said one of saidpartitions to which said one link is pivotally secured.
 8. The partitionsystem of claim 7 in which each of said partitions includes panel meansand a base positioned below the bottom of said panel means; saidadjacent partitions being secured at the bottom end of said panel means,as well as at the top of said partitions; a telescoping end cap securedto the ends of said base; said end cap including first and secondtelescopically interfitting members; said first member being positionedadjacent to the bottom of said panel means and being slidable downwardonto said second member to allow access to the bottom end of said panelmeans and to said link at the bottom thereof.